Windows 7 arrival update: Microsoft says developers get final code in early August

It will be in the hands of Windows developers (subscribing to Microsoft’s MSDN and TechNet services) at the start of August.

Business customers who buy Windows in bulk will have the final code on Sept. 1, according to an update that Microsoft’s Brandon LeBlanc posted last night.

LeBlanc clarified who will get Windows 7 when, after it’s released to manufacturing (RTM) sometime later this month. The key bits:

— MSDN & TechNet Subscribers: Subscribers will be able to download the final version of Windows 7 a few weeks after we announce RTM.

— Volume License (VL) Customers: As announced today by Bill Veghte during his WPC09 keynote, Windows 7 will be available to Volume License customers on Sept. 1.

— Consumers, Enthusiasts, & Beta Testers (everyone else): The retail version of Windows 7 will be available in stores Oct. 22. If you pre-ordered Windows 7, it should be delivered sometime around the Oct. 22 timeframe (depends on the retailer). You can pre-order Windows 7 today through many online retailers like the Microsoft Store.

— On New PCs: OEMs are expected to start shipping new PCs with Windows 7 pre-installed on them around Oct. 22.

We’ve known for a while that Windows 7 systems for consumers will officially debut Oct. 22. I’ll bet they’ll be available much sooner than that.

Brier Dudley offers a critical look at technology and business issues affecting the Northwest. Send tips or comments to bdudley@seattletimes.com. His column runs Monday, and his commentary appears here all week.